Chelsea host Arsenal on Sunday in what is expected to be a fierce London derby.
Chelsea go into the match six points clear of Arsenal who are third in the league, a win for United yesterday sent them back to the top of the table, bringing the result at Stamford Bridge into even sharper focus.
William Gallas will face his former club, whilst Nicolas Anelka and Ashley Cole will do likewise for Chelsea. Theo Walcott is fit, as is Abou Diaby, whilst the back to the future signing Sol Campbell is also available if required.
Didier Drogba has 15 league goals, after adding his free kick against Hull during the week, his third free kick of the season. He’s scored 10 times against Arsenal in 9 (+2) appearances since joining Chelsea in 2004. John Obi Mikel is also available after completing his tour of duty for Nigeria.
In late November, Chelsea crushed Arsenal 3-0 at The Emirates thanks to two goals from Didier Drogba and an own goal from Thomas Vermaelen. A win again tomorrow would just about put paid to Arsenal’s faint title hopes.
Chelsea have lost just three times in the past 114 Premier League fixtures, however, two of those were against Arsenal. The first was in Feburary 2004 and the second was the corresponding fixture last season. The Blues went down 2-1 under Luiz Felipe Scolari, only getting on the scoresheet via a Johan Djorou own goal. Robin Van Persie scored twice for Arsenal.
Ladbrokes have Chelsea installed as short priced favourites at 4/5, with a draw paying a healthy 5/2. Arsenal are clear underdogs at 7/2. William Hill are in agreement, posting Chelsea at fractionally longer odds of 5/6, the draw at 12/5 and Arsenal at 7/2.
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